Health department announces 2025-27 Strategic Plan

        The Toledo-Lucas County Health Department announced the launch of its comprehensive 2025-2027 Strategic Plan, a roadmap designed to address the evolving health needs of the community.
        The plan was developed through extensive collaboration with community stakeholders, staff and the Board of Health, including a thorough review of the TLCHD’s mission, vision and core values, with the goal of reflecting a commitment to improving health outcomes and advancing health equity throughout Lucas County.
        Key priorities of the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan include:
        Chronic disease prevention: TLCHD will implement programs to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity by promoting healthy lifestyle choices and increasing community access to primary care services. The department aims to reduce emergency department visits through policy-level interventions and partnerships with local healthcare providers.
        Complete family wellbeing: The plan emphasizes improving the physical, mental, social and behavioral health of Lucas County families. TLCHD will focus on maternal and infant health, promote available family resources and address the opioid crisis by reducing fatal and non-fatal overdoses.
        Healthy homes and spaces: As living environments play a critical role in health outcomes, TLCHD will expand its Healthy Homes initiative to address lead poisoning prevention, air quality and housing safety. Educational programs will target landlords, renters and homeowners.
        Nutrition: TLCHD aims to increase community access to healthy and affordable food. Initiatives will focus on nutrition education and reducing food insecurity, especially in underserved areas.
        Infrastructure improvement: TLCHD is committed to improving its physical facilities to better serve the community and staff. Plans include securing a new primary facility location and modernizing existing buildings.
        “The Toledo-Lucas County Health Department is committed to being a catalyst for positive change in our community,” said Shannon Jones, deputy health commissioner at TLCHD. “This strategic plan is a reflection of our dedication to addressing health disparities and improving the well-being of all residents.”
        “We believe that health is a shared responsibility. By working together with our partners and the community, we can create a healthier and more equitable Lucas County,” added Donna A. Woodson, MD, board of health member and Strategic Planning Committee Chair.
        Community involvement: The development of the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan involved input from a wide range of participants, including healthcare providers, local government officials and community and partner organizations. Through meetings, surveys and focus groups, the health department identified key health challenges and opportunities to make meaningful improvements.
        Next steps: TLCHD will begin implementing the Strategic Plan in early 2025. Progress will be assessed regularly, with annual reporting and community updates, ensuring transparency and accountability. The department will track the progress of each goal, while quarterly strategic planning committee meetings will review barriers and facilitators encountered along the way.